Hamburger Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, hearty, and easy to prepare. This budget-friendly recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With a savory combination of ground beef, onions, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish delivers all the flavors you crave in just 30 minutes. If you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, affordable, and full of flavor, Hamburger Stroganoff is the answer.
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Why You’ll Love Hamburger Stroganoff
Hamburger Stroganoff stands out because it is simple, quick, and incredibly flavorful. It’s a family-friendly recipe that doesn’t require exotic ingredients or complex techniques. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal for a gathering, this easy-to-make dish won’t disappoint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Hamburger Stroganoff, gather the following ingredients:
- Ground Beef: The heart of this dish, offering a rich and savory base.
- Onion: Adds depth and a slight sweetness to the sauce.
- Mushrooms: Provide an earthy flavor and texture that complements the beef.
- Garlic: A must-have for a bit of zing and richness in the sauce.
- Beef Broth: Forms the base of the sauce and adds a savory umami flavor.
- Sour Cream: Creates the creamy texture that defines this Stroganoff.
- Flour: Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): For balancing flavors and giving the dish a little kick.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re missing an ingredient or prefer different flavors, here are some swaps:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works perfectly.
- Greek Yogurt: For a lighter version, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for the same creamy texture.
- Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian twist, vegetable broth can replace the beef broth, and you can use plant-based ground meat for a more vegan-friendly version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and soften, about 4-5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir to coat. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
- Add the Creamy Ingredients: Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Serve the Hamburger Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Hamburger Stroganoff
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Overcooked beef can turn dry and tough. Make sure to cook it just until browned and then move on to the next step.
- Adjust Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, add a little more flour. If it’s too thick, a splash of beef broth can help thin it out.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the sauce before serving. Add extra seasoning or more sour cream for richness if needed.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
Hamburger Stroganoff is versatile, and you can pair it with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Side Dishes: Serve with steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Toppings: A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dash of hot sauce can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice as a base for a gluten-free option.
- Make-Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water to revive the creamy texture.
The Comfort Food You Can’t Resist
Hamburger Stroganoff offers the perfect blend of rich flavors and comforting texture in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal on your own, this dish never disappoints. It’s a quick, satisfying option for busy days, yet feels special enough to enjoy during any occasion.
Conclusion
Hamburger Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort meal that combines creamy, savory flavors with quick and simple preparation. This dish is perfect for busy nights, providing a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. With its budget-friendly ingredients and customizable options, it’s a meal that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and ingredients on hand. Whether served with noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, Hamburger Stroganoff is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s creamy, delicious, and most importantly, easy to make — a true weeknight winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for Hamburger Stroganoff?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in Hamburger Stroganoff. It will still provide a rich and hearty base, but with a leaner protein. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings as turkey can sometimes be milder in flavor compared to beef.
How do I make Hamburger Stroganoff gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or rice as your base instead of traditional egg noodles. Additionally, replace the regular flour in the sauce with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Can I make Hamburger Stroganoff ahead of time?
Absolutely! Hamburger Stroganoff is perfect for meal prepping. You can make the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove and add a splash of broth to bring the creamy texture back.
Can I freeze Hamburger Stroganoff?
Yes, you can freeze Hamburger Stroganoff. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. The sauce may separate slightly, so stir in a little extra broth or sour cream to restore its creamy texture.
More Relevant Recipes
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Hamburger Stroganoff Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Hamburger Stroganoff is a creamy, hearty comfort food dish made with ground beef, onions, mushrooms, and a rich, savory sauce. It’s a quick, budget-friendly recipe that’s perfect for busy nights or family dinners.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: Forms the base of the dish, providing a savory, rich flavor.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor of the dish.
- Mushrooms: Contribute an earthy taste and texture to the sauce.
- Garlic: Provides a fragrant, zesty undertone to the dish.
- Beef Broth: Serves as the liquid base for the sauce, giving it a rich, umami flavor.
- Sour Cream: Creates the creamy texture that defines Stroganoff.
- Flour: Thickens the sauce, giving it the desired consistency.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Pepper: Adds seasoning and slight heat to the sauce.
- Paprika: Gives the dish a smoky flavor and a hint of color.
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and soften, about 4-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and stir to coat. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
- Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Serve the Hamburger Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
- If you don’t have beef broth, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute.
- Make sure not to overcook the beef to avoid dryness.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 50mg